Is this the best 600cc bike on the market? Well, with the bigger motor giving so much extra mid range, the superb ergonomics, and a chassis and suspension package that is at least on a par with anything out there, I have a strong feeling the Kawasaki ZX-6R could go to the top of the class this year. 

The Honda is the only Supersport bike still to arrive and we will have to wait and see if the upgrades are enough to overcome the 2005 Kawasaki.

Next week on mcnews.com.au ex Fast Bikes editor Colin Schiller pits the 2005 ZX-6R and YZF-R6 back to back on the road.  Colin has joined the mcnews.com.au team for 2005 and other features on the way include an extensive 1,000 sportsbike comparo across five countries and the world's first test of the new Bimota Tesi-2.

mcnews.com.au is officially the #1 motorcycle site in the country (independent ratings figures) and from here it is onwards and upwards as we strive to bring you the best motorcycle site in the world.

SPECS - 2005 Kawasaki ZX-6R and (ZX-6RR)

• Engine: 636cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, in-line, four-cylinder (599cc on the ZX-6RR)

• Bore x Stroke: 68 x 43.8mm (67 x 42.5mm on the ZX-6RR)

• Compression: 12.9:1 (13.5:1 on the ZX-6RR)

• Induction: EFI with 4 x 38mm oval throttle bodies

• Starter: Electric

• Transmission: Six speed with back torque limiting clutch

• Final Drive: Chain

• Fuel Capacity: 17 litres

• Tyres: Front _ 120/65ZR17; Rear _ 180/55ZR17

• Suspension: Front _ Fully adjustable 41mm inverted telescopic forks; Rear _ Fully adjustable single Showa shock

• Brakes: Front _ 300mm discs, radial mounted four-piston calipers; Rear _ 220mm single disc

• Warranty: Two years, unlimited kilometres

• Available: Now